Unforgettable Love

By Misha

It is early in the dawn she’s on her terrace; she usually comes here to do some yoga. A time when the sunrise starts, half-hidden by clouds in the sky. She started Yoga. She prefers Yoga over Gym as she feels it enlightens the body, mind, and soul. 

Her terrace was outstanding and surrounded by dense trees, so no one could see. Her maternal grandmother had planted these trees many years ago such as; Neem, Gulmohar, Harsingaar, and Coconut. 

“Avanti!” Monobina called her.

Coming, Maa. 

Her father does not live with them. He had divorced Avantika’s mother because he liked someone else. He had died for them from the very day he left them. Her mother left his house and also his surname. 

Avantika is the only child of Monobina and Monobina was also the only child of her mother. Monobina’s mother was the one who shouldered the burden of keeping her and Avantika safe. Her husband had gone to another world when Monobina was quite young. When her husband died her eyes were filled with darkness and endless depths. But somehow she consoled herself and took care of herself and her daughter Monobina.

After the marriage of Monobina, her mother settled down in Goa. She bought a property from her savings and made this very beautiful house, where she planted many trees. 

But little did she know that Monobina’s husband would leave her for someone else. Monobina came to her mother. She was pregnant at that time. The name Avantika was given by her. She is no longer in this world but she still remains in their memories.

Avantika was humming a song while coming down the stairs. 

Done with your Yoga session? Asked Monobina.

Yes, Maa, she nodded and she continued to keep humming. 

What’s the matter, you are looking quite happy today, Avanti? 

I have got a job, Maa, as a dance teacher in a college. 

This is a great news, awesome! Monobina was delighted. 

Avantika was a trend Kathak dancer. Girls used to come up to her to learn Kathak. She had applied to many colleges but they refused because she didn’t mention her father’s name in the Father's name column. She used to get furious when she came to know about this. 

Why can’t they accept me without mentioning his name? Why?  

But one day one of her students brought an application form for her from her college. 

Will your principal accept me? She asked.

Why not, Ma’am, said Anya.

How well you teach us Kathak. Principal Ma’am wants us to learn Kathak from a trend Kathak dancer, so I told her about you. 

Please Ma’am fill out this form so my other friends can also learn from you. 

She then filled out the form and as usual, she didn’t mention her father’s name in the column. She felt that this time too she would not be selected because of this one thing. 

After some time passed, she got an email that she had been selected. She was surprised and read that email again and again. She couldn’t believe her eyes that she had been selected. It was fascinating to her and also a little bit strange that for the first time, someone accepted her without mentioning her father's name.

I have been selected, Maa! She jumps on her feet happily.

Really, Monobina smiled happily. 

I got rejected many times. 

Because I hadn't mentioned his name in the father's column but this time there is no objection by this college. 

I think the principal is quite sorted, intelligent, high-minded, and full of emotions. That's why she chose you, said Monobina. 

This is really a happy moment and we will celebrate this. 

Dusk had started to fall and Avantika and Monobina sat by the beach, which was a little distance away from their house. Their eyes were on streams. Avantika stood up and started walking barefoot on the sand. 

She booked a table for herself and her Maa at a beachside restaurant. And they reached the beach in the evening to enjoy her moments. 

So, when will your classes have started? Asks Monobina.

After one week, she answered. Some streams touched her feet and a gust of smile came to her face.   

A coconut vendor was selling coconut water. Monobina went to him. 

How much? She asks.

Fifty rupees, Madam, he answered. 

She asked him for two. 

He peeled off two coconuts, tucked the straws, and given to her. 

Hey, Avanti, see your favourite coconut water. 

Thanks, Maa. Her eyes were shining with every sip. 

Avantika was applying the homemade paste on her face. She considers natural remedies to be good for the skin. Monobina had a vast knowledge of Ayurveda. She had learned it from her mother.

Monobina massaged her scalp with coconut oil. Avantika used to feel relief from the warmth of her mother’s hand. 

She then looked at the watch, Oh God! Today is my first day, and I don’t want to be late, saying this she rushed to take a bath. 

I’m getting late, please bring breakfast, Maa, as she tucked her saree in the petticoat. 

Your breakfast is ready, my dear, I have made your favourite dish to celebrate your first day. 

Idli-Sambhar! Avantika chuckled while making her saree pleats. She wore a pastel-coloured saree with light studs, a watch in her hand, and bracelet in the other. 

Yes!

Oh, Maa! You are really amazing, she quickly came to the dining table. 

As soon as she was about to grab a bite of Idli in her mouth, her mother stopped her.

You forgot the thank you prayer, hmmm….

Sorry, Maa! 

Sorry, God! You can understand, today is my first day, that’s why I am little bit nervous, Please accept my apology this time, I won’t do this next time!

Hmm…..You’re buttering God, laughed Monobina. 

Avanti too laughed. 

I’m going, Maa, saying she hugged her tightly. 

Am I looking nice, naa?

You’re looking like a princess, she kissed her forehead and applied a Kajal behind her ear to save her from an evil eye. 

May I come in Ma’am? Avantika asks before entering.

Yes, come in, Principal commands.

Are you Avantika? Kathak Teacher?

She nodded in “Yes”. 

Welcome to St. Xavier’s College, Miss Avantika. 

Thank You, Ma’am, Avantika blushed. 

I want my students to learn classical dance, so this time I have added Kathak as a new subject in my college. 

Indian classical dance has always been close to my heart as I too was a trend Bharatanatyam dancer.

Really? She was surprised.

Yes, but I have forgotten everything after becoming Principal. Now I don't even know the B word of Bharatanatyam, Saying this she started laughing but there was a pain hidden in her smile.

And Avantika could see that. 

I saw many profiles but I liked yours the most. 

For years I had a dream in a corner of my heart that one day I would teach Kathak in a college. Today that dream has been fulfilled. And all this happened because of you. 

All this has happened because of your hard work and dedication. Because you have a vast knowledge about Kathak.

If I'm not wrong, you learned it from a famous teacher, right?

You heard right, Ma’am.

I wanted my students to not only learn Kathak but also have complete knowledge about it so that they can further represent Kathak in front of the world.

I got to know about you from a student of yours.

Who is She, Ma’am?

Anya. 

Yes, Yes, She brought the form for me. 

She is my relative, said the Principal. She told me that your steps are easy and you teach with a description. 

Avantika's eyes sparkled with surprise.

Principal Ma’am pulled out a register from a cabinet and handed it over to Avantika. Now you can take your classes, she says with a smile.

As she turned to go, the Principal gave a voice to her, never feel alone with yourself. I’m with you wherever you need me, she glanced at her. 

Thanks, Ma’am, a broad smile comes on her lips. 

Good morning students, as she enters the class. 

Good morning ma’am. 

I am Avantika Roy, your Kathak teacher. 

After taking the intro of every girl she described Kathak. 

What is Kathak? She asks the girls. 

Anya raised her hand.

Kathak is one among eight Indian classical dance forms that revolves around the concept of storytelling. Kathak word derives from “Katha”, meaning a story. An art form with inexplicable charm, mesmerizing footwork, and graceful movements. It comes from the northern parts of India. Kathak is an amalgamation of three arts- music, dance, and drama, Anya answered. 

Awesome, Anya! She praised her. 

After that Avantika told them about the history, about the three gharanas, and how its concept changed from spirituality to entertainment. 

So how was your day? Asked Monobina while making fruit salad for her.

Awesome, and she told her everything, about the well-mannered and kind-hearted Principal. All my students are nice and supportive. Everyone listened and understood Kathak with great attention.

In the evening, it was Monobina’s daily routine to recite The Bhagavad Geeta. It gives her mental stability, peace, and strength to fight every danger in their life. And this was the time for Avantika’s Kathak classes. She considered Kathak, a divine which used to give her peace and strength.

Agastya Sir!  Peon enters the Staff-room.

What happened? Asked Agastya.

Principal Ma’am calling you. 

Agastya Maheshwari was an assistant lecturer in Psychology. He was a well-behaved person. His charismatic and flamboyant personality used to attract everyone especially girls.

He was tall, fair-skinned, muscular, and attractive, with a sharp nose, and a slight beard that enhanced the beauty of a man. He always dressed up in a formal shirt and trousers. Girls used to like him so much. Wherever he would come to any class every girl’s eyes flashed with great happiness.

Ma’am, you called me? As he enters the Principal's room. 

Yes! Please come in. 

Many congratulations, Sir! Now you have been promoted from Assistant lecturer to Associate Lecturer, She congratulated him. 

Thank you, Ma’am, he smiled delightedly.

Meditation is the process of expanding one’s awareness. Through meditation, we discover deep within ourselves the soul qualities of peace and love. Today we start with meditation so that we can concentrate more on our steps. Please all of you sit down.

All the girls followed her. Now eyes closed, inhale and exhale and rest your mind without thinking about other things. 

After ten minutes Avantika asks the students;

So how are you feeling?

Better, Ma’am

Are you ready?

Yes, Ma’am, all said.

The correct way of holding your body is very important. 

So how can we do this? 

Let’s start. First I show you then follow me. 

Now it’s your turn. 

Some did well but some did not, then she told them that you should concentrate if you would not concentrate, then you wouldn’t feel good and could hurt themselves. The proper controlled execution of your movement enhances the way you dance. See Anya is doing well. She calls Anya and tells her to show them the correct way. 

Anya did correct poses.

Well done, Anya.  

A boy was peeping inside the class from the window when Avantika’s eye fell on him. 

You guys do practice, I’ll come now. 

What’s the matter? Are you also keen to learn dance? 

Suddenly seeing her in front of him he became a little nervous. 

N……no, ma’am, actually I was…..hmmmm…….I was just watching the dance. 

She laughed. 

It’s alright but it is bad manners to peep in a class. And I teach only to girls, not boys. 

By the way, what’s your name? She asks.

A, A, A…………….. Abeer Maheshwari. 

So Abeer Maheshwari, go to your classes, she said in a soft voice. 

He had come for Anya because he liked her. Anya had seen him while peeping in through the window. So after the class, she made up her mind to meet him. 

What’s your problem, Abeer? Why are you roaming around me wherever I go? I have told you many times that I’m not interested in you, bewildered Anya.

I love you, Anya. I didn't do all that, he pleaded. 

As she turned to go, he caught her hand.

Leave my hand, but he didn’t. I said leave my hand, she said vigorously. Abeer got nervous and left her hand.

Don’t ever dare this again otherwise I’ll complain to you. 

Nonsense!

Avantika was seeing all this in surprise.

She understood everything about why Abeer was peeping in the class. 

He was there for Anya. He loves her.

Do you like her? 

He turned and was shocked to see Avantika in front of him. 

N, N, N…No ma’am. 

Oh, Really! Then why are you hovering around her? 

I have heard both of your talking.

See, if she doesn’t like you then you should respect her attitude. Her ‘no’ means ‘no’. Is that clear? 

Yes, Ma’am, he made a mouth. 

What’s up champ! Agastya entered the house after taking his evening classes. 

But Abeer didn’t respond. His mood was off.

What happened, Abeer?

Abeer was his Brother’s Son. His parents left Abeer with him due to his studies.

Nothing, Chacha. 

Nothing! Then what’s this? 

He then showed him his class-test copies. 

He didn’t write a word in his copies. 

What’s all this, Abeer? 

Your parents have left you to me that I will take care of you and your studies. You were doing well. But for some quite time, I have been noticing that you are not paying attention to your studies. What will happen to your parents if they come to know about that?

Tell me. 

Sorry, Chacha.

I saw you hanging around a girl but she is not interested in you. Why are you doing this? You are a brilliant boy, such acts do not suit you.

Sorry, Chacha.

What Sorry, Sorry?

Really Sorry, I won’t do this again, and he bowed his head.

Acha, what would you like to have for dinner? Asked Agastya. 

As you like, I will eat whatever you make.

Well, if you speak with such a rotten face, then I will not feel like making anything.

Hey, champ, at least smile a little.

Oh, my dear Chacha, today we both will make aloo parathas together, He tried to hide his sadness behind a broad smile.

His heart was sinking. 

And Agastya could see this. 

Abeer is a nice and innocent boy. He loves Anya so much. But why Anya can’t see love in his eyes. Does she love someone else? Or there’s something else. 

How she scolded him bitterly but he didn’t utter even a word. Anya shouldn't have done this to him. He loves her so much and Anya is so lucky that she got a boy like Abeer, but she has no feelings for him.

What are you thinking, Avanti? 

Nothing, Maa. 

No, something is in your heart. You didn’t even touch the food. Tell me. What happened? 

She then told her about Abeer and Anya. 

Maybe something bad has happened in her life which is related to Abeer, says Monobina.

Maybe, and She took a bite of Dosai, dipped it in the Sambhar and ate it. 

Your Coffee disappears my entire headache. 

I’m going to the market to buy some vegetables. 

Do you want something? Asks Monobina.

Hmmm…Peanut-butter and Black chickpeas, she said while immersed in her mobile.

Alright! Don’t forget to water the plants. 

Sure, Maa! 

Suddenly somebody knocked on the door. 

You came soon. When she opened the door, Anya was standing. 

Oh, Anya! It’s you! Come inside.

Good evening, Ma’am.

Good evening, Anya. 

Sit, I just come.

She brought a tumbler of water for Anya. 

A painting caught her attraction towards it. She got spellbound at the sight of it.

She is my Grandma, Avantika comes with a tray.

Oh! She is so beautiful.

When she had been to Jaipur, an artist made this painting for her. It was my grandfather’s wish to see her in Rajasthani attire, she gives a glass of water to Anya.

Oh, that’s cool. 

Ma’am, can you please teach me Kathak at your home? She asks.

Actually, in college, some things distract me, so I do not able to concentrate.  

Avantika understood. 

No problem, you can come tomorrow. 

Thank you, Ma’am. 

I teach Kathak on five days, timings 5-6. 

Today is my day off. 

What would you prefer? Coffee, Juice or Coconut Water. 

Coconut Water. 

She then got up and came back with one. 

Yours?

I just had coffee. Gosh! I forgot I have to give water to plants. Wait, I just come in two minutes. 

As she was going towards the stairs, Anya gave a voice. Ma’am, I’m also coming. 

And after some time they were on her terrace. Anya was helping her too. She was inhaling the fragrance of fresh flowers. The terrace was surrounded by the dense trees. Flowerbeds and grass were spread at the centre. 

This is my favourite place, said Avantika. I do Yoga here. 

Yes, it is. I too love your terrace. It is quite awesome, as she bent down to touch the grass. 

My grandma had adorned this house and planted these trees. 

This house is hers. 

And your father?

He’s not in this world. For us, he has died. 

I didn’t understand. 

Then she told her the whole story.

Oh! I’m so sorry.

Anyway forget it, can I ask you something?

What, Ma’am?

What’s going on between Abeer and you? Is everything alright? I saw you scolded him. He came just for you. 

I also scolded him. But he didn’t say anything. He was listening silently with his head bowed.

Anya’s face became pale. 

A gush of anger came to her face. The happiness that was on his face some time ago had now disappeared. 

I loved him but what did he do, he cheated on me. Now I just hate him. 

And she lost into memories. 

It was a matter of those days when I had taken admission in this college. I was searching for my class on the list and there was a huge crowd of students. 

As I was about to fall, somebody grabbed my hand and pulled me from there. 

It was Abeer. 

Sorry, you were about to fall, so I…….I was just helping you. Please don’t take it in the wrong manner. 

He was in my class. 

And then we became good friends. We used to share everything and then when we both fell in love with each other, we didn't even know. 

We both could not live without each other. We could not rest until we saw each other, talked to each other.

I felt that he loves me as much as I love him. But that's the biggest mistake I made.

Because he never loved me, he would do to me the same thing what he did to that girl.

And the blindfold of love came off my eyes.

Nishant told me everything. 

It was a late-night party and we were invited to this party. 

There was a lot of crowd on the dance floor. And I refused to go but he did not listen to me and forcefully took me into the crowd.

And then he suddenly disappeared. I searched for him here and there. I called him but his mobile was out of network. Then Nishant told me that he was in a room on the 2nd floor. 

When I went upstairs, I could not believe my eyes, he was lying unconscious on the bed with a girl half naked, she was also half naked.

I was startled. I couldn’t believe that this is the same person whom I loved so much was insidious. I ran as fast as my feet could carry me. There was no one listening to my plea. I felt stupid, numb, and inadequate.  

“No…………….” I screamed as I snapped out of my dreams. 

My parents ran to me. Anya! ‘What happened, daughter’? ‘Are you alright? 

I looked around, completely bewildered. I started crying. 

My Dad gave me a glass of water. I drank it in one go. Then my Mom wrapped her hands around me and hugged me. I too hugged her tightly. 

I felt relief in her arms. 

What happened, daughter? Did Abeer say something to you? Asked Mom.

Yesterday you were so tired, so we didn’t disturb you.

I burst into tears and told them the whole thing.

They were completely taken aback. 

My Dad was filled with anger. I won’t leave that bastard. How dare he do this to my daughter?

It’s not your fault, Anya! My Mom continued to gently run her hand over my face and wiped my tears.

No, it is my fault. I’ve broken your faith. I deserve this. I should have died and started sobbing. 

My parents were shocked but silent. All of us didn’t say anything for a while. When I stopped crying and calmed down a bit.

No, it’s not your fault. Please, don’t say this again, Anya! You are the apple of our eye, they said.

You’re a strong girl, Anya. A cheater like Abeer can never dissipate you. 

Anya, daughter, be strong. Be brave and face the situations. Don’t run away from them.

You know Ma’am, they supported me. You did love and loving is not a wrong thing.

When I was depressed, they were standing with me like a rock. It took me three months to get out of depression. My parents had taken me to Shimla for resting. 

Now, I have moved on. I’ve no feelings for him. I just hate him.

I should talk to Abeer, Avantika made up her mind.

I don’t know, Ma’am, who she was. 

Look, Abeer! Don’t lie to me. Because I hate liars.

No, Ma’am, I’m telling the truth. I don’t know what happened to me that day. When I came out of consciousness there was nothing, Abeer replied. 

I’ve never drank alcohol in my life. 

Why did you drag her to dance in such a crowd? Asked Avantika.

No, Ma’am, I didn’t drag her. I don't even know when all this happened.

Try to remember, something must have happened, Avantika tries to remind him.

Abeer put a lot of emphasis on his mind. 

Yes, yes, I remembered. When we entered the party, lights were dimmed. 

Then I went to get mock tail for both of us, after that what happened, I don't remember anything. 

How did I reach that room? I don't know. 

I just know one thing that I love Anya so much. I'll love her till my last breath. I want to be with her. If I could not get her I'd die, saying this he started crying. 

Don’t worry, Abeer. Anya is yours and I promise I’ll solve this matter. 

Thanks, Ma’am. Abeer wiped his tears. 

Avantika Ma’am is so nice, said Abeer while having dinner.

Who’s Avantika Ma’am? Interrupted Agastya.

She’s Anya’s Kathak dance teacher, Chacha. 

She will help me to resolve problems between us. But Chacha you also have to help us. 

Of course, I’m with you, relax, Agastya Consoled. 

I think Maa, there is someone who don’t want to see them together. 

Whom are you talking about? Asked Monobina in a Surprise. 

Anya and Abeer, Maa.

I have concluded that someone has played a big game in separating Anya and Abeer. 

I’ll find that culprit. I have seen honesty in Abeer’s eyes. And Anya loves him even now because I saw love for Abeer in her eyes.

What's the name of the club you told? Asked Avantika.

Party Hard Club, Ma’am. 

But Ma’am, It is out of the town and I don’t want let you to go there alone. My Chacha will help you.

Chacha?

Yes, Ma’am, Agastya Sir is my Chacha, he is too lecturer in this college. He taught Psychology.

Okay, I’ll meet him.

In staff-room…………...

Excuse me, Avantika gave a voice to Agastya.

As he turned, he saw Avantika standing in front of him.

He got lost in her charm. 

She crossed her hands towards her chest. 

Mr. Agastya!!

Mr. Agastya………….this time she called him a little bit louder.  

Oh! I’m so sorry. You?

Hi! I’m Avantika Roy, Kathak Teacher. 

Oh, so you are Avantika Ma’am, He shook his head. 

And he raised his hand towards her, Avantika also raised her hand in response. Abeer told me about you. 

Then he must have also told you that Abeer and Anya both love each other.

Yes, he nodded. 

We should help them. 

I will surely do, he smiles.

He kept continuously looking at her. Avantika felt a bit strange. She tried to free her hand from his grip. But he was so lost then he didn’t notice it.

Mr. Agastya, Mr. Agastya, she said a bit vigorously.

Hmm….hmm…as he wake up from a dream.

Can you please leave my hand? She asked.

Oh, I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry. 

When Agastya was passing through her class, his steps stopped itself. He was mesmerized. He took a deep breath. His heartbeat became faster. He made an attempt to glance away, but his eyes were no longer in his control. Avantika noticed him staring at her. She frowned. 

Do you want something, Agastya Sir? She came to him.

Ah……... No, No, nothing, replied a flustered Agastya.

Her face sported a slight smile.

Both of them went to that club and insisted on the Manager show them the CCTV footage on that day. But he refused. 

It’s anyone’s……………One second, as Agastya interrupted Avantika. 

It’s a blank check and you can fill in the amount whatever you want. Now show us the footage. 

Then the manager gave a voice to his assistant. He took them to a room where the footage was. When they saw the footage they understood everything. And what the manager told them was shocking. 

The girl in that footage was a call girl who was invited by Abeer’s classmate Nishant. Nishant also loved Anya. He wanted to get Anya by hook or by crook. That’s why he did all this conspiracy. 

When they showed both Anya and Abeer this footage. They both were startled. 

I’m sorry, Abeer. How much I considered you wrong. But you always loved me and cared for me every time. I do not deserve you. 

No Anya, don’t say this and they both hugged each other. 

Avantika and Agastya both looked at each other and smiled 

I’m so happy, Maa, she wrapped her hands around her Maa. 

She was feeling extremely happy. She started dancing with her Maa. The door was open. Agastya was standing at the door with a bouquet in his hands. He let out a deep sigh of ecstasy as he saw Avantika dancing playfully with her mother.  

Seeing him, she got shy. 

You? Please, come in. 

Maa, he is Agastya Sir, she introduces him. 

Namaste Aunty, as he bent down to touch her feet. He then gave the bouquet to Avantika. 

Both of you do talk, I just come, saying this and she went inside. 

How are you, Ma’am? He asks.

I’m alright, and you.

I am also fine and extremely happy for both of them. 

Agastya wanted to meet her, that’s why he came here. Avantika watched silently with her gaze on the floor.

You dance very well. I can’t get your dance off my mind, he said enthusiastically.

Avantika blushed at the compliment.

Then her mother comes with a tray of snacks. 

Is life bringing something special to me? Is any new chapter about to start in my life? These questions were in her mind and she kept smiling the whole night.

By Misha